So, I set out on a mission: to find the best lightweight, summer-ready pants that actually keep you cool during real-life wear. I tested about 20 pairs all over New York City, from steamy subway commutes and errands to yoga classes, date nights, and long office days. The verdict? You can stay cool and covered in the right pants this summer—these are the styles worth snagging before the next heat wave hits.
What To Consider
Materials
- Nylon: Nylon is lightweight and quick-drying, making it ideal for hot, sweaty days or spontaneous summer adventures. It’s also durable and often water-resistant, which is great for staying comfortable during unexpected weather or outdoor activities.
- Polyester: Polyester is breathable, moisture-wicking, and resists wrinkles, so your pants stay cool and even in the heat. It also holds color well and dries quickly, making it perfect for summer wear and travel.
- Linen: Linen can be ultra-breathable and lightweight when it’s made with quality fibers. The right linen offers great airflow to help keep you cool on hot days, and its naturally textured look brings an easy, laid-back summer vibe. Just note: not all linen is created equal. Look for styles made from European flax with a soft, looser weave—cheaper versions can feel stiff and stuffy, and in that case, a good cotton blend might serve you better.
- Elastane: Elastane (also known as spandex) adds stretch to summer pants, giving you freedom to move without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially great when blended with other fabrics to prevent that stiff, restrictive feeling on warm days.
- Cotton: Cotton is a classic summer staple for a reason. It’s naturally breathable, soft on the skin, and great at absorbing moisture to keep you feeling fresh. Lightweight cotton pants allow for plenty of airflow, making them ideal for hot, sticky days. Plus, it’s super versatile and easy to style, whether you’re dressing up for the office or heading out for a casual weekend.
How We Chose
As an associate style editor, I’ve tried tons of women’s pants throughout the years, from the best leggings with pockets, to the most comfortable jeans. Throughout the year, I go to press appointments and meet with our go-to brands on the latest collections, then I test everything I take home for story inclusion. Only the absolute best products make it into my roundups. There are more women’s pants than I can possibly test, but for this story, I tried and tested 20 pairs of top-rated summer pants from my favorite brands at the gym, around the house, on date nights, or on long days out and about to see which ones had top marks across comfort, support, compression, style, breathability, and moisture-wicking abilities. The 10 options that made it onto this list were winners in all the above categories and have personally made their way into my day-to-day wardrobe.
” data-next-head/>
Pros
- Super soft and stretchy
- Loose; don’t hug the body tight
- Can be dressed up or down
Cons
- A bit heavy for super hot days
When it comes to the Lululemon Align Palazzo Pant, I truly can’t recommend it enough. It’s made from Lululemon’s super-soft-yet-moisture-wicking Align fabric (81 percent nylon, 19 percent Lycra elastane), and is hands-down the most comfortable pant in my closet. It’s also super airy thanks to the wide-leg cut, and it moves with me whether I’m running errands or hitting a yoga class. Bonus: the fabric is sweat-wicking, so it actually holds up during my low-impact workouts.
As for the fit, I love how flowy it is compared to Lululemon’s signature flared leggings. It doesn’t cling at all, which is ideal post-big meal or on days when I just don’t want anything hugging my body. The drape of the pant lends itself to a flattering shape for curvier body types, which I appreciate. It also comes in a range of lengths, so it’s easy to find the option that works with your height. The size range is 0–14, and the stretch factor makes it feel like it was made to fit you.
Flowy, oversized pants are so in style right now. This one in particular is easy to throw on with a tank or dress up with a blouse and ballet flats for something more office-friendly. Especially in black, it’s great for the office because it can be styled like a trouser. It also has two front pockets and a hidden card sleeve, perfect for when I’m dashing out for a coffee and don’t want to bring a bag.
The only caveat: It can feel a bit heavy, so I don’t reach for it on scorching-hot days. But on a breezy 70-degree afternoon? This pant is the first thing I grab. I’ve only had it for about a month and I’ve already worn it over six times.
Read More: Best Flared Leggings
| Materials | 81% nylon, 19% lycra elastane |
| Sizes | 0–14 |
| Colors | 6 |
Pros
- Simple design easy to mix and match with anything
- Can be worn to work out or hang
- Good amount of spandex, which isn’t always the case with track pants
Cons
- Pricey, but worth it for versatility
Track pants are the It Girl’s go-to this summer because they’re casual but can be worn with any shoe, and this pair from Splits 59 is a great place to start. It comes in a bunch of colors, so you’ve got plenty of options to mix and match. The design is simple with just one stripe down the side, which makes it super easy to style with a black tee, a sports bra, or most casual fits. It has a drapey, more low-rise fit, which is also super flattering.
Track pants started out as activewear, but now the stylish crowd—hi, cool moms, TikTok girlies, and NYC fashionistas—is wearing them with everything from ballet flats to heels. I personally love pairing this pant with jelly flats or strappy summertime sandals.
OG track pants used to be super thick and heavy, but this one is lighter, stretchier, and dries quicker. If you want a full set, grab the matching Max Rigor Track Jacket to complete the look. I will say, the price is a bit steep, but I deem it worthwhile for how versatile it is.
| Materials | 62% nylon, 38% spandex |
| Sizes | XS–XL |
| Colors | 7 |
Pros
- Stretchy and comfortable
- Water-resistant and moisture-wicking
- Four zippered pockets
Cons
- Not the most stylish option on this list
Most of the picks on this list are made for casual days, but this hiking pant is the most durable option and can handle all the hot girl walks, outdoor adventures, and long days on your feet. Why? It’s made out of a high concentration of polyester, so it’s super lightweight, which helps you stay cool, fresh, and comfortable all day long. Plus, it’s made with UPF 50 sun protection, so it’s a smart pick for spending hours outside.
Function-wise, it really delivers. You get four zippered pockets for keeping your essentials secure, an elastic waistband with a drawstring for a comfy fit, and a roomier fit in the knees that make moving around easier. There are also adjustable cord locks at the cuffs so you can tighten the leg openings to keep bugs out or get a more customized fit. I might be a city slicker, but I get my outdoor fix by visiting Colorado a lot, and I love pairing this pant with a moisture-wicking top and hiking shoes for a long day hiking in the mountains.
And the list doesn’t stop there—it has four-way stretch, it’s water-resistant for those unexpected showers, and it’s moisture-wicking for hot, sweaty days. Basically, it checks all the boxes for an outdoor pant, and it’s the most affordable option on this list.
| Materials | 90% polyester, 10% spandex |
| Sizes | XS–3X |
| Colors | 21 |
Pros
- Mesh is breezy for summer
- Drawstring keeps them secure
- Can be worn over other pants
Cons
- They run big
A new favorite in my summer pant rotation, the FP Movement Overtime Mesh Pant lives somewhere between a track pant and an everyday trouser. Made from a mesh jersey polyester fabric with tons of tiny perforations, it’s all about breathability. When compared to the Lululemon pant, this is much thinner, more lightweight, and lets air in, so you’ll never feel weighed down or too sweaty on a hot summer day. It’s the ultimate throw-on-and-go pant, so it’s great for heading to the gym, hitting the pickleball courts, or even layering with a button-down and flats for an office-appropriate moment.
Heads up: It’s def see-through. I usually pair it with booty shorts or layer it over leggings if I want a bit more coverage or texture. That said, full-coverage undies totally work too (no judgment!). I’m all for a little skin showing, especially when it’s 85 degrees and I want airflow without committing to shorts. Quick note: it runs big, so I’d recommend sizing down.
| Materials | 100% polyester |
| Sizes | XS–XL |
| Colors | 4 |
Pros
- Feels soft and breathable
- Relaxed through the hips and gets even looser through the leg
- Can be dressed up or casual
Cons
- You have to size down if you want them to be a bit more flattering
If you’re looking for a linen pant that doesn’t scream “beach day,” the Relaxed Wide Pant from Madewell is a great pick. The darker color has the look of a dark wash jean but feels soft, breathable, and light thanks to the linen blend. Because it comes in darker colors, has jean-like stitching, and it’s adorned with buttons, it’s the rare linen pant you can actually wear to the office. Plus, the darker colors hide linen’s infamous wrinkling. The high-rise fit is relaxed through the hips and gets even looser through the leg, making it perfect for warm days.
I love how versatile this pant is. You can dress it up with a kitten heel or sandal, or go more casual with a pair of Salomons or Adidas Sambas. It strikes that perfect balance between fun and polished.
Sizing-wise, if you prefer a more fitted look at the waist, you’ll probably want to size down. Your true size gives you a nice, baggy fit, but it does sit a bit lower on the waist, which is just something to keep in mind when shopping.
| Materials | 100% linen |
| Sizes | 00–24 |
| Colors | 5 |
Pros
- Drapey, soft fabric
- Structured waistband
- Easy to style
Cons
- Lighter shades can be sheer
Barrel leg styles—where the pant leg flares out and then tapers back in at the ankle—are everywhere this summer because they offer a little bit of an edge without showing too much skin. They also look great on curvy body types because of the roominess. So when I spotted the Cargo Curve Pants from Everlane, I had to try it.
It’s made from European flax linen, and the fabric has that soft, easy drape that makes it easier to dress up and down. The cargo pockets give it a slightly grungy vibe, adding a fun twist to a classic shape. It has just the right amount of volume to feel cool and relaxed without veering into clown-pant territory. I also love that the waistband is more structured, which helps hold you in and gives some shape to the fit.
One thing to note: the lighter shades can be a little sheer, so I’d recommend pairing this with a longer top or wearing bikini bottoms underneath—just to play it safe.
| Materials | 100% European flax linen |
| Sizes | XXS–XXL |
| Colors | 4 |
Pros
- Boxer-style waistband is super trendy
- Cool and comfortable
- Super relaxed fit
Cons
- Have to size down for a more snug fit
I wore the shorts version of this trouser pretty much every day last summer, so when I found out the brand made a full-length version, the Suit Up Trouser, I immediately added it to my closet. And just like the shorts, I’ve been reaching for it nonstop.
It features Alo’s signature boxer-style waistband that you can wear high or low on the hips, plus front pleats and a loose, straight-leg fit that feels perfectly breezy in warm weather. The fabric is a lightweight blend of polyester and elastane, so it stays cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. I’d wear it as a breezy gym fit, but paired with Salomons and a tight white tank I wear it out for errands all the time, too.
One key difference from the shorts: this pant comes with side pockets, which is great for carrying your essentials when you’re on the move. It’s meant to fit super relaxed, but if you want a slightly closer fit, I’d recommend sizing down.
| Materials | 86% polyester, 14% elastane |
| Sizes | XXS–L |
| Colors | 2 |
Jeans may not be the first pants you want to wear when it comes to summer outfits, but this option from Pistola is cropped and lightweight, making it ideal for summer. I recently met with the brand to preview its summer collection, and immediately reached for it when I saw an employee wearing it.
The pant is made from 100 percent cotton, which keeps it breathable and light but still offers a structured feel similar to denim. It also features a hidden waistband tie so you can adjust the fit to your liking, which makes it extra comfortable. The pocket design adds a cool, elevated touch and the cropped design is super flattering for those who want to show some skin.
Whether you’re heading into the office or keeping it casual on the weekend, it strikes the perfect balance between practical and stylish. I love pairing it with a low-profile sneaker and a white tee for that effortless, cool-girl vibe. It is a bit cropped, so just know that going into it. I wish it came in more colors, too.
| Materials | 100% cotton |
| Sizes | 23–33 |
| Colors | 2 |
Pros
- A bit of stretch makes them super comfortable
- Fully lined, so not see-through
- Come in an ultra wide leg version
Cons
- The regular inseam runs long, so shorter people should opt for the short inseam
If you go into an office, a solid pair of trousers is a must, and this pair is perfect for summer. It’s super lightweight and breathable, made from a soft blend of polyester and spandex that gives just the right amount of stretch. It has a high-waisted fit, front pleats for a polished look, and a wide-leg silhouette that keeps things on-trend. I’d wear this with a cropped collared shirt or a plain white tee and flats for a fool-proof office look.
One of the best parts? It’s fully lined, so you don’t have to worry about it being see-through, even in lighter shades like white or tan. Just a heads-up: the regular length does run a little long, so if you’re on the shorter side, you might want to opt for the shorter length (yup, that’s an option!).
If you’re into a more oversized look, check out the Ultra-Wide Leg version. It’s even baggier with a bigger leg opening, which is great if you love that extra volume like I do. Personally, I’m a fan of both styles, depending on the vibe I’m going for.
| Materials | 88% polyester, 12% spandex |
| Sizes | 00–18 |
| Colors | 2 |
Pros
- Can size up or down depending on fit
- Effortlessly baggy look
- Great for warm weather
Cons
- They run a bit short
Aritzia is a go-to for elevated everyday pieces, and this pant is another reason why I’m such a fan. It’s soft, lightweight, and super versatile, with a wide range of cute colors to choose from. You can size up or down depending on the fit you’re going for.
It has an ultra-wide leg and an elastic waistband, which gives it that effortlessly baggy look. The fabric is a blend of linen and lyocell, so it’s soft, breathable, and perfect for warm weather. This pant serves vacation energy, so I’d pair it with a white tank and flops for a beach stroll. But, I’ve also worn it paired with a strapless tank and heels for a night out in the city—this pant really is that girl!
I do wish it was a bit longer since I love when my shoes just peek out under the hem. It definitely runs on the baggier side but isn’t overly long, which makes it a great option for the petite ladies who want a relaxed fit without being completely swallowed up.
| Materials | 66% tencel Lyocell, 34% linen |
| Sizes | 2XS–XL |
| Colors | 10 |
Lily Wohlner is the associate style & commerce editor at Women’s Health. A sneakerhead, shopping enthusiast, and beauty expert, she’s mastered the art of testing, reviewing, and recommending standout products across every style category. Lily started her career as a freelance makeup artist before diving into the editorial and copywriting world, creating content for brands like Oribe, NewBeauty, and Dermstore. When she’s not training for her next half marathon, you’ll find her in the Lower East Side whipping up high-protein recipes with her roommate or thrifting for the ultimate pair of low-rise jeans.
Watch Next
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
